Kaizer Chiefs are actively working to trim their extensive squad as the transfer window deadline of Monday, September 22, rapidly approaches. Head coach Nasreddine Nabi has acknowledged the necessity of managing the club's currently bloated 39-man roster, especially after integrating 10 new signings this season. The Tunisian mentor, alongside sporting director Kaizer Motaung Junior, aims to offload players to ensure optimal squad balance and provide valuable game time for developing talents.

Nabi emphasized the importance of this process, stating, "It’s true that the squad is big and the technical staff, management, the sporting director, Kaizer Junior, is working on options to try offload the squad, to give some players, who didn’t have consistency or time to get more game-time, to other teams." He further added, "Some [of our] young players need to get the experience needed for the PSL, at other clubs, everyone is aware of that and is aware of what will take place." This strategy is geared towards preparing younger Amakhosi players for the demands of the Betway Premiership.

Several players are reportedly among those likely to depart on loan to secure consistent playing opportunities. Samkelo Zwane, a 23-year-old midfielder, has fallen out of favour and is yet to make an appearance this campaign, despite featuring regularly upon Nabi’s initial arrival. Mfundo Vilakazi, the 19-year-old, has played only three matches this season and faces limited game time with the arrival of three new attackers, making a loan move beneficial for his development. Wandile Duba is another young player whose future could involve a temporary switch.

Beyond loan moves, other squad adjustments are anticipated. The club has already seen the departure of several players, including Ranga Chivaviro, Njabulo Blom, Edson Castillo, Edmilson Dove, Yusuf Maart, Bongani Sam, and Mduduzi Mdantsane. In defence, Dillan Solomons at right-back could be offloaded given Thabiso Monyane's strong performance, while Given Msimango's future appears uncertain with Aden McCarthy cementing his place. Zitha Kwinika, a forgotten figure, showed renewed promise when given an opportunity late last season and is likely to serve as a backup alongside Rushwin Dortley. In central midfield, Samkelo Zwane’s lack of game time makes his departure probable, with strong options like Ethan Chislett, Thabo Cele, Siphesihle Ndlovu, and Sibongiseni Mthethwa available.

The current 39-man Kaizer Chiefs squad, prior to the expected exits, includes:

Goalkeepers: Bruce Bvuma, Fiacre Ntwari, Brandon Petersen, Bontle Molefe

Defenders: Given Msimango, Rushwin Dortley, Inacio Miguel, Aden McCarthy, Paseko Mako, Bradley Cross, Nkanyiso Shinga, Happy Mashiane, Kabelo Ngkwesa, Thabiso Monyane, Reeve Frosler, Dillan Solomons

MIDFIELDERS: Sibongiseni Mthethwa, Siphesihle Ndlovu, Samkelo Zwane, Thabo Cele, Thulani Mabaso, Mduduzi Shabalala, Lebohang Maboe, Mfundo Vilakazi, Nkosingiphile Ngcobo, Ethan Chislett, Lehlohonolo Matlou

Forwards: Donay Jansen, Pule Mmodi, Glody Lilepo, Asanele Velebayi, Luke Baartman, Etiosa Ighodaro, Khanyisa Mayo, Ashley du Preez, Naledi Hlongwane, Wandile Duba, Tashreeq Morris, Flavio Silva.

As the transfer deadline looms, Kaizer Chiefs are poised to make crucial decisions to refine their squad, balancing immediate competitive needs with the long-term development of their young talent for the challenges of the upcoming season, including the CAF Confederation Cup.